General architecture of the GLONASS-K2 satellite as of 2015. Credit: ISS Reshetnev

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According to early plans, the first two GLONASS-K1 satellites would be followed by GLONASS-K2 satellites. A modified version known as GLONASS-K2, was expected to feature an unpressurized satellite bus and a new type of navigation signal with the so-called code-protected selection. The spacecraft would transmit three types of signals, two of which in L1 and L2 range would be designed for specialized users, such as the military and one channel in L1 range would be available to everyone else.

The spacecraft also uses a new-generation thermal control system based on electrically powered thermal panels complemented with optical thermal coating, which replaced traditional fluid-based systems. The new thermal control method, (first tested on GLONASS-K satellites), enables to maintain temperature of some critical avionics on the spacecraft within 0.1 degrees, ISS Reshetnev said.

Development

As of 2010, the launch of the first GLONASS-K2 spacecraft was expected in 2013. (438) In November 2012, ISS Reshetnev announced that the completion of the preliminary design for a modified GLONASS-K satellite had now been expected in October 2013.

Due to delays with the development of the GLONASS-K2, Roskosmos had to order a total of nine GLONASS-K satellites for a routine replacement of the GLONASS-M spacecraft.

In July 2016, ISS Reshetnev announced that the company had began testing the GLONASS-K2 satellite in the thermal and vacuum chamber, however the planned launch date for the satellite was not confirmed at the time.

(To be continued)

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Last update:
July 14, 2016

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A photo of GLONASS-K2 satellite released in 2016 shows its testing in a GVU-600 temperature and vacuum chamber simulating conditions of space. Credit: ISS Reshetnev

Antennas onboard GLONASS-K2 satellite. Credit: ISS Reshetnev

The Soyuz-2.1b rocket with the first GLONASS-K satellite on the launch pad in Plesetsk in February 2011. Credit: Roskosmos